The 2024-2025 HR Stars Awards Malaysia recognised outstanding leaders in the HR industry, with Azaharin Abd Lati, Head of Human Resources at AmMetLife Insurance, emerging as the runner-up for Best HR Leader. His people-centric and strategic leadership has driven significant organisational transformation, fostering a high-performance, inclusive culture.
Azaharin’s leadership philosophy is anchored in the application of nine natural human instincts to HR strategy. This innovative approach enables him to design people strategies that resonate across generations, creating an inclusive and engaged workforce. By recognising universal human instincts—such as the need for social belonging, hierarchy, and recognition—he has shaped a corporate culture that promotes equity and inclusivity.
A key pillar of his leadership is the Diversity, Inclusion, Culture & Engagement (DICE) Committee, which he established to drive AmMetLife’s HR initiatives. Through DICE, employees are empowered to lead workplace engagement efforts, ensuring every team member feels valued and connected. Additionally, Azaharin has embedded these principles into the company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and Employee Value Proposition (EVP) frameworks, reinforcing a sustainable and inclusive work environment.
Under his leadership, AmMetLife has undergone a remarkable transformation. The company has witnessed higher workforce productivity, reduced attrition of key talents, and increased internal talent mobility, contributing to stronger business performance. His commitment to aligning HR strategies with business goals has resulted in a culture where collaboration, productivity, and stability thrive.
Azaharin’s emphasis on fostering a “Community of Passionate People” further accelerated HR initiatives, ensuring employees remain engaged and motivated. His ability to balance organisational priorities with employee needs underscores his effectiveness as a strategic HR leader.
“Togetherness is a strong force and has no boundary – All Together Possible….” — Azaharin Abd Lati
